This updated eleventh edition of Introduction to Labour Relations in South Africa provides some exciting improvements to the same comprehensive easy-to-understand text as its predecessors.

This edition updates developments in the field of macroeconomic policy and the effects of globalisation on the economy. The latest statistics on economic growth, inflation, and unemployment are provided. The effects of globalisation and Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) and their impact on labour relations is reviewed and illustrated with appropriate case studies. The labour relations impact of the restructuring of state owned enterprises and universities is highlighted with new case studies. Up to date information is provided relating to the latest developments in trade unions and their federations as well as the restructuring of employer organisations. Key data relating to the changing face of industrial action in South Africa is provided as well as case studies of recent strikes.

Table of contents

Chapter 1 - Labour relations theory and perspectives

Chapter 2 - The history of labour relations in South Africa

Chapter 3 - Environmental influences on labour relations

Chapter 4 - Trade unions: goals, strategies and organisation

Chapter 5 - Management strategy and employer organisations

Chapter 6 - The role of the state, government strategies and the state as employer

Chapter 7 - South African labour law

Chapter 8 - Collective bargaining forums

Chapter 9 - Employee participation

Chapter 10 - Workplace agreements and procedures

Chapter 11 - The negotiation process

Chapter 12 - Conciliation, arbitration and Labour Court adjudication

Chapter 13 - Strikes and lock-outs

Chapter 14 - Future prospects

Appendix 1 - Summary of the Employment Equity Act

Appendix 2 - Summary of the Basic Conditions of Employment Act

Appendix 3 - Summary of the Occupational Health and Safety Act

Appendix 4 - Summary of the Code of Good Practice on the handling of sexual harassment cases